Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1

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Medik8 are a leading brand when it comes to Retinol research. They have a large range of Vitamin A products so there's something to suit every skin type. One of their most popular ranges is the Crystal Retinal range. They've just expanded this range by adding 2 serums, meaning there's now 4 strengths to choose from - 1, 3, 6 and 10.

All 4 serums contain crystal-encapsulated retinaldehyde which is an advanced form of Vitamin A. It's closer to clinical grade Vitamin A, than standard Retinol and it works up to 11 times faster. It's also more gentle to your skin, meaning less (if any) redness, peeling or sensitivity. Not only do these serums contain this amazing ingredient, they also include hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E to hydrate and repair skin.

The newest strengths are 1 and 3. These have been designed for those who have previously found other Retinol products to strong or harsh or who have sensitive skin.

The numbers relate to the amount of retinaldehyde the serum contains - 1 has 0.01% and 3 has 0.03%. Don't be fooled into thinking that such a small amount isn't effective - it is! One thing with Vitamin A is that stronger doesn't always mean better. It's about finding a strength that suits your skin. It's been proven that using a lower strength Vitamin A consistently for a period of time, can give just as effective results than a stronger one. Which is great news for those that can't tolerate or don't want to use a stronger one, as you're less likely to get any side effects like peeling, redness or sensitivity with a lower strength.

Medik8 kindly sent me Crystal Retinal 1 to try out. I've previously reviewed Crystal Retinal 6 which you can read HERE so I was interested to see how they compared. Consistency wise they're exactly the same - a light peach cream, smelling lightly of vanilla. It absorbs beautifully into skin, leaving it plump and hydrated. I could tell straight away that it was a lower strength than 6, by how it felt on my skin. There was no tingle, no sensitivity or redness whatsoever. The following morning my skin looked smooth and clear.

I had been using Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol, which I've found very strong. So strong in fact, that I've not been able to use it every day or on the same day as using an acid product. It's taking a while for my skin to build up a tolorance to it. I've found this frustrating as I've not had this issue with other Retinol products. I especially need to regularly use an acid product to keep my acne in check.

Using Crystal Retinal 1 enables me to be able to use both Retinol and an acid on the same day, without getting any sensitivity.  I'm continuing to use A-Passioni every other day, then Crystal Retinal 1 with an acid the next day. This way I don't have to compromise or choose between acid or Retinol. I can use both and my skin loves me for it!

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 is available from a number of retailers including Medik8.com and Skin City HERE for £39. They also stock the rest of the Crystal Retinal range HERE.